Law & zones

Drone pilot licence in Lithuania: what you need in 2026

Since 2021, Lithuania applies the same EASA UAS rules as other EU member states. Your theoretical certificate is recognised across the Union - but exams and registration are handled locally by TKA (Transport Competences Agency).

A2STS editorial18 min read

Contents

1. Lithuania follows EASA - not a separate national licence

Remote pilot qualifications in Lithuania are issued under EU Regulation 2019/947 and EASA guidance. Passing the A2 theory exam in Vilnius gives you a certificate that is valid for open-category A2 operations across the EU, subject to local operational rules.

TKA organises exams, maintains the registry and publishes the latest administrative requirements. Always verify fees and registration steps on the official TKA portal before you book.

2. Open, specific and certified - which path you need

Open category (A1/A3, A2) covers most hobby and many professional flights with standard mitigations. Specific category (STS standard scenarios) is for higher-risk missions such as controlled ground areas or certain BVLOS setups. Certified category applies to large UAS - rarely relevant for typical commercial multirotors.

Most pilots progress A1/A3 → A2 → STS when projects move from recreational flying near people to structured commercial operations in complex environments.

  • A1/A3: foundation - often online theory with your NAA
  • A2: flying C2-class drones closer to uninvolved persons
  • STS: pre-defined specific-category scenarios (STS-01, STS-02)

3. A1/A3 - free preparation, official pass with TKA

A1/A3 proves you understand open-category basics: regulations, airspace, meteorology, human factors and operational procedures. In Lithuania the official test is typically 40 questions in 40 minutes with a 75% pass mark.

A2STS offers the full A1/A3 question bank free (252+ questions) so you can build confidence before the official TKA quiz. Treat free practice as the learning phase - the NAA exam still requires registration.

4. A2 - classroom theory at TKA

A2 allows operations with C2 drones nearer to uninvolved persons (with defined horizontal distances and low-speed mode rules). Prerequisites include valid A1/A3 and documented self-practical training.

The TKA A2 theory exam is 30 questions in 30 minutes, ≥75% to pass, usually taken in person in Vilnius. Display fees on the TKA website change over time - budget for both exam and certificate issuance.

5. STS - longer theory for commercial scenarios

STS-01 and STS-02 are the standard scenarios most relevant in Lithuania. The STS theory exam is typically 60 questions in 60 minutes with ≥45 correct answers (75%).

Questions are procedural: you must understand operational volumes, risk mitigation and coordination - not only definitions. Prepare with full 60/60 simulations on A2STS before booking TKA.

6. Operator registration and drone marking

Pilot qualification and UAS operator registration are separate. Operators receive an operator ID (LTU-…) used on aircraft labels for drones above 250g or with a camera, as required.

Registration is electronic via TKA e-services and usually takes minutes once documents are ready.

7. Realistic timeline from zero to A2

A1/A3 online pass: 1-3 days of focused study. A2 preparation: 4-6 weeks at ~30 minutes per day. TKA registration lead time: 1-2 weeks. Exam day plus certificate processing: a few days.

Total for a motivated candidate: often 6-9 weeks from start to A2 certificate, assuming consistent practice.

Frequently asked questions

Is a Lithuanian A2 certificate valid in Germany or France?
Yes - EASA remote pilot competency certificates are recognised across EU member states for the categories you hold.
Do I need STS if I only have A2?
Only if your missions fall outside open-category limits. Many commercial urban jobs require STS or another specific-category authorisation.
Where do I sit the official exam?
TKA in Vilnius for A2/STS theory; A1/A3 is often completed online via TKA systems.
How long are A2 and STS valid?
Plan for a 5-year renewal cycle - refresh theory before expiry to avoid operational gaps.

Authority & sources

A2STS Editorial · Reviewed by: EASA UAS syllabus aligned